Cheshire - (203) 272-7209 | Naugatuck - (203) 729-2253 | Waterbury - (203) 753-5112
Tribute Wall
Wednesday
29
February
First Visitation
4:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Wednesday, February 29, 2012
Alderson Funeral Home of Cheshire
615 South Main St.
Cheshire, Connecticut, United States
Thursday
1
March
Service Information
10:00 am
Thursday, March 1, 2012
St. Bridget Church
175 Main St.
Cheshire, Connecticut, United States
Interment Information
St. Bridget Cemetery
Higgins Rd.
Cheshire, Connecticut, United States
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The family of Robert Marinaro uploaded a photo
Thursday, May 29, 2014
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The family of Robert Marinaro uploaded a photo
Thursday, May 29, 2014
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The family of Robert Marinaro uploaded a photo
Thursday, May 29, 2014
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The family of Robert Marinaro uploaded a photo
Thursday, May 29, 2014
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Leslie - Dad's eulogy posted a condolence
Saturday, March 3, 2012
Well, this is one eulogy I really didn't want to have to do as I never could imagine a life without my Dad in it. But when he knew his time was near, he had me sit on his hospital bed, take a notebook out and give me his last instructions. One was to write and read his eulogy and although I hate why I am up here, I could never say no to my Daddy.
Shortly, as we proceed out of St. Bridget's, you will hear one of his favorite singers singing his favorite song. Frank Sinatra's song "My Way" could have been written for my Dad in so many ways. He loved this song from the second it came out and he lived his life "his way" until the last minute of his passing. And how he lived his life was a testament to the outpouring of people who have sent our family notes, calls, tributes on websites and paying respects yesterday and today. On behalf of my Mom and all my family, we thank you. It has comforted us in more ways than you know. Dad gave us so much and we always wonder if he really, truly knew how many people he touched and influenced. Dad.I hope you are looking down and realize just how much you were loved.
When my Dad was faced with the option of a ventilator or going out on his own terms, he called me to the hospital and told me he wanted to end his life with grace. He knew for days that his end was near, but for all who don't know.he was laughing and joking and giving us last minute advice. It wasn't until the last hour of his life, with my mom and all his children and grandchildren around that he took his last breath.
When he made this decision to go out on his own terms, my heart was breaking, yet I found solace in the words of the man who was more of his friend than his doctor. Jim Sarfeh told me that Dad was giving my family one last gift - making a decision that no family member would want to make. And once we thought about it, and even talked about it with Dad, we realized he gave us his heart even at the end. That was our Dad, that was Bob your nephew, cousin, uncle or friend. That was Mr. M. How lucky we all are to have had him in our lives.
So I started thinking of all the "gifts" my Dad gave us. It was more than just a love of the NY Giants or Yankees, or slipping us a $20 bill when we needed one. He gave us so much more than that. And that goes to all of us here, not just our family.
Dad was an only child who grew up with his aunts in his childhood. They were more like sisters than aunts and he loved and cared for them all his life, and for all of their lives. He learned that love and respect for his family from his parents, carried that on to his aunts and his cousins and in turn, he taught his children and grandchildren that there is nothing more important than loving, caring and respecting family members. Aunt Violahe made it a point on the last day of his life to make sure to call you to tell you he loved you. Another "gift" he wanted to bestow.
As he worked his way up starting as a grocery delivery boy to owning the IGA grocery stores, he brought the values and ethics of hard work and perserverence to his career. We remember when we closed Cheshire IGA after 30 years in operation, the kids who worked in the store when it first opened coming in as grown adults telling us how their first job at Cheshire IGA gave them a work ethic they carried on to their later careers. And even today, the Cheshire IGA gang, as we call it on Facebook has sent us notes and tributes to the man they called "Boss". What a gift he never really knew he gave to you all. On the back of the program, you will read some tributes that summed up what many felt.
As a member of the Cheshire community, Dad showed us all what it meant to be a leader. Living and working in town did not mean just getting up and opening the doors of a business or driving to a job. It meant when the power went out, he made sure the doors of the store were opened, even if the employees who made it in had to walk customers around with flashlights and add up their groceries on a battery-operated calculator or issue credit. It meant when the police or fire departments needed help with food or supplies, all they had to do was make a call to Dad. It meant not just talking about doing things in your community, but joining and being active in local organizations and charities. Whether it was helping to get scholarships out to local students or getting the van for our seniors, his involvement as a Cheshire Rotarian and Paul Harris Fellow, or a Cheshire Chamber member meant doing more than just getting a plaque. His years as President of the Farms Country Club meant more than that title. It meant caring for the place where he spent a lot of time playing the game he loved so much and cultivating lifelong friendships. Again, his community service was important to him and it was another gift he passed on to us.
Friendship. That is a word that meant a lot to our Dad. His friendships lasted from the gang who grew up in Town Plot in Waterbury to the ones he made when he moved to Cheshire, to the ones he made when he semi-retired and met in Palm Desert. Loyalty, honesty and just always being there when needed was the backbone of our Dad. And it didn't stop there. When my brothers and I grew up, all our friends knew they were always welcome in our house. If they needed anything, they always knew they could call Mr. M. And it still didn't stop there. When his grandchildren came along, all their friends thought nothing of stopping by to see Mr. M., or coming over the house if he needed them to help out with something. You may have noticed that all the people coming to the services for Dad came from every generation - it is a testament to how his family extended beyond his kids and grandkids. Again.what a gift his friendship was.
Being a good husband. Let's face it - Dad could be stubborn when he wanted (another gift he passed on). He was the quintessential Italian man, head of the household. But when all was said and done, he knew he could never have done all he did without my Mom, his Bette, or who he later called "Ma" because that's all he heard in our house from us kids. But from the day he whistled at my Mom as she walked by him on the street, to the years of raising five kids and establishing his career in the grocery industry - he knew he never could have done it without Bette. Mom.when you think about how difficult he got when we were trying to keep him away from chocolate or when you went away for a few days, for instance, you know in your heart he couldn't wait for you to get back so things could get back to normal. For 59 years of marriage you were his other half and he knew it. He showed us what it meant to have someone you can count on. What a gift your union was not only for our lives, but for all knew the couple known as Bob and Bette. At the end, it was your hand he grasped and your eyes he conveyed how he felt.
He was so blessed with a wife, kids, grandkids, friends and colleagues who gave him a happy and full life. To the grandchildren, he loved you with all his heart and when you get sad thinking about your Pop.remember how much he enjoyed going on special vacations with you or having you over for Sunday pasta or going to your games or grading your coloring. The way you loved and respected your Pop meant more to him than anything and he was very proud to call you his grandchildren.
Dad asked me for four songs you will hear throughout his services and each one meant something not only to him, but when you think about it, everyone who is here paying respects to this great man I called my Daddy:
1. The National Anthem, only sung correctly, according to him, by Whitney Houston. Dad was the most patriotic man I knew and this rendition of the National Anthem always brought him to tears. He was proud to serve his country during the Korean War and proud to vote in each and every election and more than anything, was proud to be an American.
2. My Way by Frank Sinatra - Dad lived his life that way and ended his time here on earth that way. Some of the lyrics say, "I've lived a life that's full. I've traveled each and ev'ry highway; But more, much more than this, I did it my way. Regrets, I've had a few; But then again, too few to mention. I did what I had to do And saw it through without exemption. Yes, there were times, I'm sure you knew, When I bit off more than I could chew. But through it all, when there was doubt, I ate it up and spit it out. I faced it all and I stood tall; And did it my way. For what is a man, what has he got? If not himself, then he has naught. To say the things he truly feels; And not the words of one who kneels. The record shows I took the blows -
And did it my way!
3. Unforgettable by Nat King Cole and Natalie Cole - Dad that is the song for all your girls! But really and truly, "Unforgettable, that's what you are".
4. My Man, by Barbara Streisand - He banished her from our house even though she was his favorite singer because she was too liberal. But he said he loved the way she sang it and would make an exception. The last words are When he takes me in his arms, The world is bright, all right...What's the difference if I say I'll go away, When I know I'll come back on my knee someday For whatever my man is, I am his forever more...
Dad, you are all these things and more and are a gift to all of us. I feel my life will never ever be the same without you in it, but I know you will be in my heart and in all our hearts forever. Rest Daddy.rest in peace.
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J Nunnally posted a condolence
Friday, March 2, 2012
I am sorry to learn of your family sorrow. The death of a loved one is painful. If I may, I'd like to share scripture that may help in some way. Please take a moment to read John 6:40, 44, Ps. 36:9 and Ps. 37:29.
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Nancy Seddon posted a condolence
Thursday, March 1, 2012
Dear Betty, My prayers and condolences to you and your family. He was a good man have knowing him for a short time. I'm a friend of John Milici's since you may know me by my last name. God Bless You All!
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Janell And Raymond Powell posted a condolence
Thursday, March 1, 2012
To the Marinaro Family we send our deepest sympathy. Bob was such a character and had such a sweet smile. We will miss him at family gatherings, even with such a large crowd. Our prayers are with you as you heal from your loss.
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Star Festini posted a condolence
Wednesday, February 29, 2012
My deepest sympathies to all of the Marinaro family. I only had the pleasure to know Bob for a few years. I only needed to know a few seconds to realize how wonderful a person he is. May the Lord uplift you at this time of sorrow.
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Beth Pesce posted a condolence
Wednesday, February 29, 2012
I just heard about "pop"...my sincere sympathy to the whole family...i will always remember the fun we had working together at Maro's, he was quite the character that man, but a great guy...love to you all, Beth
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Ann Losty Lento posted a condolence
Wednesday, February 29, 2012
I share my condolences with the whole Marinaro family. You were blessed to have such a wonderful husband, father, friend and community member in Mr. Marinaro. I have many fond memories of family gatherings, Rotary Christmas parties and trips. Mr. Marinaro always had a bright smile and welcoming demeanor. I was lucky, like so many, to have known him and worked for him. Thoughts and prayers from my family to yours. With love, Ann Losty Lento
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RAY AND JUDY D'ANTONIO posted a condolence
Tuesday, February 28, 2012
In the 13 years we have lived next door to Bob, Betty, and Leslie, not only have they been the best of neighbors in every sense, but the fun in knowing that we shared the same baseball and football teams in the Yankees and Giants made it fun in every way. The fact that Bob "coached" these guys every day has to be the only reason they won so consistently. They may think he is now off their backs but they should know better - this "coach" will be with them always. We are all going to miss this wonderful man here on earth but we know he will be watching all of us and "coaching" when necessary.
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Fred Ulbrich, Jr. posted a condolence
Tuesday, February 28, 2012
My deepest condolences to Elizabeth and their entire family, and their many friends upon the passing of Bob. I knew him best in the 70's & 80's and I had lived in Cheshire for a portion of that time and I was an active member of The Farms Country Club and I played golf with Bob and his many friends. He was an inspiring leader, and one of the nicest persons I have ever met. He was devoted to his wife and family, his business and many community affairs in which he was involved. He will be greatly missed by all who knew him, and I consider it a privilege to have known him and be a friend of his. Fred Ulbrich, Jr.
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Frank & Marie Mazzalupo lit a candle
Monday, February 27, 2012
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Bob was a great person.
He accomplished much in his life.
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Bob and Mercedes Font and Family posted a condolence
Monday, February 27, 2012
Big Bob you became to our family after marrying Bette; me, just Bob, and your first son, Little Bob. You fulfilled this name as you were always big in heart and spirit. You were an example of how, by hard work, one could succeed from a store clerk to owner of a supermarket. Yet you were always humble and the same man I met when I first met you. My family and I will always remember you and we are thankful and blessed to have been part of your life.
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Ralph and Kim Mesite posted a condolence
Monday, February 27, 2012
To the entire family, We are so sorry to hear of the loss of a very special person. All the conversations shared with him will never be forgotten.
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Chris Lukonis posted a condolence
Monday, February 27, 2012
Leslie and the Marinaro family, Mr. Marinaro, as I continued to address him over the years, always made me feel welcome in your home and with your family and never failed to give me a good laugh. I will always remember the genuine interest he took in all the details of his children's friends lives. My thoughts have been with you and will continue to be with you in this time of grief.
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Carmen Anthony Vacalebre posted a condolence
Monday, February 27, 2012
Dear Bob and the entire Marinaro Family, I was traveling out of the state and I am very sorry to learn of your father's passing. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Our Deepest sympathy to all the Marinaro Family. Carmen Anthony Vacalebre and all your friends at the Carmen Anthony Restaurant Group
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Brendan Flaherty CEO Warrior Custom Golf posted a condolence
Monday, February 27, 2012
My condolences to the entire Marinaro family. With there being over 500,000 Warrior Golf clients there are very few I get to speak with personally, but Bob was such a special person I found myself speaking on the phone with him regularly. I received a wealth of valuable knowledge from his experiences and advice. We will miss him.
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Roy Rowland and family posted a condolence
Monday, February 27, 2012
My condolences and deepest sympathy to the entire Marinaro family. You are in our thoughts and prayers at this time.
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Linda Putetti posted a condolence
Monday, February 27, 2012
My deepest sympathy to the Marinaro family and Aunt Bette Uncle Bob will always be remembered for always that great smile, his generosity, and always made you feel comfortable, he had a calming effect when he was with you, a family man always, family was important to him, and he always supported his family, through thick and thin, and helped everyone, he will be missed but not forgotten, love you very much Mrs. Daniel Putetti
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ceil brnier posted a condolence
Monday, February 27, 2012
Dear Betty and famiy, I am sorry sory to hear of Uncle Bobs passing. I have so many memories of your faily and uncle Bob; he will be missed. Ceil Bernier
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Chip Staley posted a condolence
Monday, February 27, 2012
Our thoughts and prayers are with the entire family for your great loss. The fond memories of Mr. Marinaro will always bring a smile to our face. I am sure my father was right there to greet his good friend and longtime golf partner in heaven. Love, The Staley Family
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Ellie Klarides posted a condolence
Monday, February 27, 2012
To you all, Bob lived his life his way until God brought him home. His lov for Betty, his childre and grandchildren was always foremost In his life and How wonderful that they were all there until the end of his time. On earth. My love and prayers and know I will be with you in spirit. Love, Ellie
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Paul Meyer posted a condolence
Monday, February 27, 2012
Leslie, My heart goes out to you and your family. May you find some comfort knowing that you are in my thoughts and prayers as you both grieve the loss and celebrate the life of your Dad. God Bless You, Paul
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Jim McGregor posted a condolence
Monday, February 27, 2012
My deepest condolences to the Marinaro Family. One of the highest compliments that can be conveyed on a “Rotarian� is that he was “a good Rotarian� living and practicing the highest level of human behavior. Bobby was a very good Rotarian and he will be sincerely missed.
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Patty Kosis posted a condolence
Monday, February 27, 2012
Dear Leslie & Family; My thoughts and prayers have been and will continue to be with you in the days ahead. With deepest sympathy, Patty
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Hilary (Levy) Kustrin posted a condolence
Monday, February 27, 2012
I am sad to hear of Mr. Marinaro's passing. I remember his smiling face and grandfatherly demeanor. The end of an era, so to speak. My thoughts are with the entire Marinaro family.
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Pat Houle posted a condolence
Monday, February 27, 2012
I just want to express my sincere condolences to all of you on Bob's passing. Since I was assigned to work with him in the early years of the Bozzuto's Sports Charity Classic, I learned a lot and have many, many fond memories of both he and Adam doing what they both did best. He will truly be missed. He is probably already planning golf tournaments with all the friends that he has joined. God bless and comfort you all. Love, Pat
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Jack and Barbara Gorman posted a condolence
Monday, February 27, 2012
Dear Bette and Family Our thoughts and prayers are with you and the children and grandchildren at this sad time. Sorry that we cannot be there with you. We will remember Bob in our prayers. Much love to all.
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Salvatore Zarra posted a condolence
Monday, February 27, 2012
Bobby, Randy, Ricky, Leslie and Roy, My condolences to you upon the passing of your father. You were his real children, but he treated many of us like his children when we worked for him. He was a great man and a pleasure to know. I am thankful I was able to get to know him a bit over the years. May you find peace in these days of sorrow.
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Doug Hageman posted a condolence
Sunday, February 26, 2012
I remember Bob. In the jargon of the trade, vendors assign various terms to the management and operators of retail stores. The highest praise a retailer can achieve is to be referred to as a "Good Call". A "good call" would be a retailer who's personal word and handshake mattered, and/or who might go a little out of their way to accommodate a sometimes behind schedule field rep. Having called on Bob while representing what was then a Fortune 25 company I can personally attest that Bob Marinaro was absolutely a GOOD CALL. He was a kind, decent man and a pleasure to do business with; and everyone I know who ever dealt with him felt the same way.
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Nancy and Ralph Jackson posted a condolence
Sunday, February 26, 2012
Dear Leslie and Family, We were so sorry to hear of your Dad's passing. This is a sad time but you have many happy memories. He was always so proud of you and always referred to you as his "princess". You are all in our thoughts and prayers.
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Phyllis Helbling posted a condolence
Sunday, February 26, 2012
My condolences go out to the entire family, sorry for your loss. He was a great man. I remember seeing him all the time in IGA. My prayers are with all of you....
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Marilyn & Joe Bartoli posted a condolence
Sunday, February 26, 2012
Dear Leslie and Family, We are so sorry to hear of your Dad's passing. He was a wonderful and special man. We have such fond memories of bringing Justin in the back room of the store to talk to your Dad, just as Joe's father had done with him. He touched so many, many lives and we are all the better for it. Much love and God’s blessings to you all. The Bartoli Family
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Everett and Nancy Hultgren posted a condolence
Sunday, February 26, 2012
Dear Betty and children... Our prayers and thoughts are with you at this difficult time. Your wonderful memories will be witn you forever. Much love, Nancy and Everett
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angi syme posted a condolence
Sunday, February 26, 2012
I am so sorry for you leslie and your entire family. You are a wonderful person and friend and I'm sure your dad had a hand in that. I will see you on Wed. Prayers to all of you in this time of grief.
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Marianne Lentini-Bernarduci posted a condolence
Sunday, February 26, 2012
To the entire Marinaro Family, I was so saddened to hear of " Uncle" Bob's passing. He was one of the greatest and loved by all who knew him. That grin and that laugh were infectious and he had the biggest heart. May all the wonderful memories sustain you now and always. Love, Marianne Lentini-Bernarduci
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Cheshire - 615 South Main St. (Rt. 10) P.O. Box 89 Cheshire CT 06410
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